Understanding Luke 22:19

Verse: "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me." (Luke 22:19, KJV)

This critical verse occurs during the Last Supper, where Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, symbolizing the New Covenant. Below is a comprehensive analysis extracted from public domain commentaries to derive the deeper meanings associated with this important passage.

Summary of Key Themes

• Institution of the Lord's Supper: This verse marks the establishment of a sacred ordinance within the Christian faith, emphasizing the significance of remembering Jesus' sacrifice.
• Symbolism of the Bread: The bread represents Christ's body, which was broken for humanity's salvation, a theme that echoes throughout the Gospels.
• Act of Thanksgiving: Jesus gives thanks before breaking the bread, highlighting the importance of gratitude in the practices of worship.
• Call to Remember: The directive "do this in remembrance of me" establishes a continual act of remembrance, pivotal for Christian tradition, pointing to the need for believers to reflect on Christ's sacrifice.

Connections to Other Scriptures

The meaning of Luke 22:19 is enriched through Bible verse cross-references. Below are pertinent scriptures that frame and complement this verse:

• Matthew 26:26-28: Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper, paralleling the account found in Luke.
• 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: Paul reiterates the significance of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing remembrance and proclamation of the Lord's death.
• John 6:51: Jesus refers to Himself as the "living bread" which came down from heaven, establishing a connection to his body being shared.
• Isaiah 53:5: This Old Testament prophecy about the suffering servant complements Luke 22:19 by referencing the sacrificial nature of Christ's mission.
• Exodus 12:14: The Passover context deepens the understanding of Jesus' body represented in the bread, linking it to the Jewish tradition of remembrance.
• Hebrews 10:10: Paul mentions that it is through Christ's sacrifice that believers are sanctified, reinforcing the significance of His body in this sacrament.
• Psalm 22:14: A Psalm depicting suffering, allows for a prophetic connection to Christ's physical suffering and eventual sacrifice for believers.

Insights from Commentaries

Matthew Henry: Henry notes that the breaking of bread was an emblem of Christ's suffering body. The act serves not only as a memorial but as a means of personal reflection on the weight of sin and the depth of Christ's love.

Albert Barnes: Barnes emphasizes that the phrase "do this in remembrance of me" is not merely a suggestion but a command that encompasses the essence of Christian remembrance and fellowship through communion.

Adam Clarke: Clarke provides deeper insight into the historical context of breaking bread, linking it to the traditional Jewish practices while asserting that Jesus redefined its significance through His sacrifice.

Application and Practical Insights

This verse calls each believer to reflect on the meaning of communion, enhancing understanding through cross-referencing biblical texts. It serves as a reminder to draw connections between faith practices and their roots in scripture, leading to a more profound appreciation of Christ's sacrifice.

Conclusion

Luke 22:19 is a foundational verse that not only establishes the practice of communion but also serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrificial love of Christ. Understanding its implications through various thematic Bible verse connections invites Christians into a richer communion practice, emphasizing the importance of remembrance and gratitude in their faith journey.